noun
memsahib
Memsahib (noun) means a historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address. Example: “The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India.”
noun
1
A historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address.
"The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India."
How to use memsahib
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn old colonial-era title for a European woman in India — now mainly seen in historical or literary contexts.
When to use it
A historical term tied to British colonial India; it can carry uncomfortable colonial connotations in modern use.
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Word forms
- Plural
- memsahibs
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The novel is narrated from the perspective of a _____ in 1920s India.
Etymology
A blend of "ma'am" and "sahib" (a respectful Indian term for a man of authority).
Rhymes for memsahib
See all rhymes for memsahib →Frequently asked questions
What does “memsahib” mean?
The word “memsahib” means a historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address. In plain terms, an old colonial-era title for a European woman in India — now mainly seen in historical or literary contexts.
How do you use “memsahib” in a sentence?
Here is “memsahib” used in a sentence: “The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India.”
What part of speech is “memsahib”?
“Memsahib” is a noun.
What is the meaning of memsahib?
"memsahib" (noun) means a historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address.
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